Welcome to our Term 2, Week 8 Newsletter, an exciting edition featuring one of our major College events, our annual Cultural Night!

Key Dates

Leadership Team

Andrée Rice, Principal

School Officers' Day at St James College

Did you know St James has over 100 non-teaching staff and we group these amazing people together as a whole and call them School Officers?! We celebrated School Officers’ Day yesterday with a beautiful lunch catered by A Taste of Pasifika (the Faialaga family). We could not operate without this essential group of staff who, every day, give their absolute best to our school, and make a massive difference to students, staff and all operations at St James. I am sure our families would all have someone special in mind who helps their child personally - from Mrs Maria Young and Mrs Kiri McNamara at Enrolments and Reception, through to Mrs Jenny Russell in Learning Enhancement and Ms Yoli Cano in Student Services. This week, in particular, we thank you and salute you!

Parents and Friends Committee

On Monday night, 16th June, we are holding our Parents and Friends’ meeting in the library from 6.00pm-7.30pm. This is a special meeting that will be interactive and interesting, as we seek your input and feedback about future planning for the school. If you haven’t come along before, that is no problem. We will welcome you and make you feel comfortable, and you’ll be able to give your perspective on where we are tracking well and what could be even better!

Isikeli Kubunameca, Assistant Principal - Identity & Global Advocacy

Cultural Night – On Friday 30th May, St James College hosted our annual Cultural Night. This year the night was held at ERPAC at St Laurence's College and was an amazing display of the cultures, talents and diversity that St James College embodies. Thank you to all that contributed to the organisation, our students who performed and the parents and guests, who attended.

Technology One Community Day - Technology One continues to support the College through service, cooking meals at the College taken on Brekkie Van and also used at the College for students.

Year 12 Camp - Year 12 Camp this year was held at QCCC Mapleton with record attendance by students this year. Students began their journey reflecting on the past 12 years of formal education, where they are now and their future.

Year 11 Mass Lesson - Year 11 students engaged in a lesson on how to be at, and participate in, a Catholic Mass. Father Michael Tran led the Mass. Our students gained a lot from the session and are looking forward to their badging ceremony next year.

Year 7 Retreat Day - A great day with Year 7s reflect on their journey in Year 7 and connecting to God.

Kiribati Presentation - A presentation on a recent trip to Kiribati to support one of the communities on the front line of climate change and raising sea levels. St James College, Ambrose Treacy and All Hallows donated laptops and stationary to be transported to the islands to help in educational resources and to connect the communities.

Samoa Independence Day - On Friday 6th June, St James College recognised our Samoan students and families in celebrating Samoa Independence Day.

Nick Hurley, Assistant Principal - Equity & Student Engagement

QISSN and QISSRL Fundraising Dinner

Last Friday, we welcomed Bronco, Queensland and Australian Rugby League player, Ben Hunt, to St James College for a fundraising evening. All proceeds from the night will go toward our Netball & Rugby League teams heading to QISSN (Bundaberg) & QISSRL (Rockhampton) in the first week of the June/July holidays.

Ben spoke positively and honestly about his rugby league and life journey over the years and left our families with some great advice around working hard, leading others and gratitude, amongst many other pearls of wisdom.

The evening was a new fundraising initiative here at Jimmies, and feedback from the event has been overwhelmingly positive. There were Q&A prizes for the floor, ‘Beat Ben’ Footy Pass competition and Bronco jersey raffles throughout the evening.

The success of the evening was predominantly due to the staff and students of St James themselves, who co-ordinated the entire fundraiser. Special thanks must go largely to Sarah Kelly, our Executive Assistant, who worked so hard in the lead up to and during the event. A huge thank you to Michelle Sparks, Pete and Ojas for the co-ordination of our catering throughout the night and the Jimmies students who prepared and served the amazing two course meal.

I also acknowledge the wonderful set up and dismantling of the hall at both ends of the night by our dedicated maintenance team - Gary, Jimmy and Red. Special thanks also to Yoli and Alex on the bar and the new Jimmies Footy Toss board, produced by our Trade Skills staff.

Best of luck to our four teams for their upcoming competitions in Bundaberg and Rockhampton.

Date Claimers:
Year 5/6 Taster Day - Friday June 20
Confraternity Rugby League Camp - Wednesday June 25 to Friday June 27 (Jimmies Dam)

Around the College

Arts Development and Cultural Inclusivity

Tiaho Jordan

Jimmies Junior Podcast

In this Reconciliation Week Special of the Jimmies Jnr Podcast, Year 5 students, Cindy and Joseph, retell Mabo’s Story — the historic land rights case led by Eddie Koiki Mabo and lawyer Greg McIntyre, which resulted in a landmark High Court decision. Through their storytelling, the podcast reminds us that truth can be spoken in many ways — in courtrooms, through music, film, art, and the voices of young people. Stories like this help Australians understand the past and imagine a better future. We encourage families to listen, reflect, and keep the spirit of truth-telling alive in every generation.

20250602 v6 Jnr Podcast Mabo Storyteller.mp3

Long House

Andrew Ebrington

The last full school assembly saw three new Long House seniors recognised for their leadership over the past semester. Rhani Law, Matt Caton and Will Cant have all gone above and beyond the expectation of the cohort and most recently were presented with their Long House Leaders badge at House assembly. I am sure they will not be the last of this amazing group of young men and women to be awarded such acknowledgement.

Honour and Dignity.

BDO Visits Year 11 Accounting Class

Tony Ninasivinche

On Tuesday, 3rd of June, St James College welcomed representatives from BDO—one of the world’s top accounting firms—into the Year 11 Accounting class. The session, held during Sam Montgomery’s lesson, gave students real-world insights into careers in accounting.

A guest speaker from BDO shared their personal career journey and helped break down common myths about the profession. Students learned about the wide range of roles available in accounting and what pathways—from high school to university—can lead to success in the industry.

The presentation sparked great questions and lively discussion, with many students now considering accounting as a future career option.

For those interested in exploring careers in Business or Accounting, please speak with Tony Ninasivinche or Tate Williams from the Careers Hub.

Hairdressing Students in Cultural Night Preparations!

Erin Lorimer

We were proud to take a group of students from Alegria Salon to St Laurence’s College to style the performers' hair for their Cultural Night celebration. The day was a great success, with students not only showcasing their skills but also having practical tasks signed off as part of their training. It was an invaluable opportunity for them to gain real-world, hands-on experience. Well done to all involved!

Dr Maggy Lord – UQ STEM Workshops

Tim Spina

As part of our partnership with Dr Maggy Lord from the University of Queensland we took a group of our Middle School young women across to the university to participate in three STEM hands-on workshops. Students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds have been working with Dr Maggy Lord as part of her STEM initiative. Students had a great time hearing from the lecturers and working on the projects. The three workshops were:

1. Engineers without borders – the workshop sheds light on the challenges faced by women in disadvantage communities.
2. Neighbourhood challenge – students design a neighbourhood solution.
3. Giving movement back – students learn how engineering plays a part in prosthetic limbs.

Visual Art

Berenice Anzellotti

The students had a unique opportunity to explore the ancient Japanese pottery technique of Raku. Working alongside a professional ceramic artist, they learned hands-on skills in glazing and firing their own ceramic pieces. The exciting outdoor firing process—where glowing-hot pieces are removed from the kiln and cooled in sawdust and washed in water—resulted in stunning, one-of-a-kind finishes. It was a creative journey full of learning, experimentation, and pride in crafting a truly amazing product from start to finish.

Year 12 Students Explore Careers at Brisbane Expo and WorldSkills Championships

Tony Ninasivinche

On Thursday 12 June, our Year 12 students attended the Brisbane Careers & Employment Expo at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. This year’s event featured over 160 exhibitors and was held alongside the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships and Skills Show, a national competition showcasing Australia’s best young tradespeople.

Students explored career options, spoke with training providers and employers, and gained insights into future pathways. Highlights included free career seminars, interactive displays, and the Try’aSkill zones, where students could experience hands-on activities in fields such as carpentry, mechatronics, and hairdressing.

Seeing young people competing in real-world skill areas was fantastic. It gave our students a clearer picture of what’s possible after school and sparked lots of conversations about future goals and interests. Experiences like this really help bring career ideas to life!

Junior Science

Andrew Ebrington

This term our Year 9 science class have been investigating types of reactions, and it was brought to my attention by class member Dominic Ferguson that rocket science involves exothermic reactions. This led to the purchase of a re-usable rocket that was able to be fired multiple times. With different types of fuel amounts the rocket reached heights of 90 metres on school grounds and up to 300 metres in Victoria Park. The students were able to gain practical understanding of combustion propulsion and have some fun whilst learning.

Junior science, to infinity and beyond.

Team Up Session 2: Hardship

Yacob Kial

Our second Team Run session, delivered in collaboration with PCYC, centred around the theme of dealing with hardship. The challenges were intentionally designed to frustrate and test students emotionally and physically, helping them explore how to manage adversity in a safe and supportive environment.

The session began with a warm-up and values check-in, before students tackled a series of obstacle-style tasks that required persistence, teamwork, and emotional regulation. As frustrations rose, students were encouraged to pause, communicate, and find ways to push forward as a group. These moments became key teaching opportunities, supported by PCYC mentors and school staff, who guided students through strategies for staying calm, focused, and solution-oriented.

Despite the intensity of the challenges, students showed incredible resilience and adaptability. Many stepped up as leaders, encouraging peers and adjusting strategies to achieve shared goals. The group reflection at the end allowed students to acknowledge not only their own growth, but also to recognise and appreciate the efforts of others.

Session 2 was a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from perseverance and peer support. Students left feeling challenged yet proud, having learned that setbacks are often the first step toward success.

Behind the Badge: A Visit from Officer Ben Porteous

Yacob Kial

Our students were fortunate to receive a visit from Ben Porteous, our School-Based Police Officer. The session provided an exciting opportunity for students to explore a police van, learn about policing equipment, and ask a range of thoughtful questions. More importantly, the visit focused on breaking down barriers and building positive relationships between students and police. Ben’s approachable manner created a safe space for open conversation, helping to foster trust and mutual respect. The visit was a valuable experience that highlighted the importance of community connection and the role police can play in supporting young people beyond enforcement.

Certificate II in Sampling & Measurement - Excursion to Kedron Brook

David Tan

On Thursday 29th June, students in their first year of the Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement travelled to Kedron Brook to participate in water quality testing. Samples were taken at four different sites and using a variety of instruments, students measured water temperature, pH, salinity as well as nitrate and phosphate levels. The data was then analysed back in the classroom to provide an overall assessment of the health of this water way. Thanks to Dr Richard Lew who assisted on the day.

Certificate II in Sampling & Measurement - Excursion to Soapbox Brewery

David Tan

Over the last four Mondays, a group of second year Certificate II Sampling and Measurement students ventured to Soapbox Brewery in Fortitude Valley. There they learned the process of beer brewing and the associated sampling and measurements required at each stage of the process. Measurements taken included sugar readings and pH which indicated the readiness of the brew to progress to the next stage. On their final visit, students were treated to watch the process of canning and the testing required to ensure the integrity of the can. Thanks to Luke and the team at Soapbox for generously giving their time and expertise.

St James Shines at 2025 Brisbane Kokoda Challenge

Sarah Mouritz

Congratulations to our incredible students who took on the 2025 Brisbane Kokoda Challenge on Saturday with 7 teams representing St James, our largest turnout to date! The Kokoda Challenge is more than a hike; it’s a test of endurance, teamwork, and determination and our students rose to the occasion.

Each team pushed through kilometres of rugged terrain, steep climbs, and mental hurdles, embodying the true Kokoda spirit of courage, endurance, mateship, and sacrifice. A huge thank you to our dedicated Team Leaders, who guided their groups with skill and care across the finish line.

Special thanks also go to Sue, who ensured everyone arrived safely with her tireless transport support, and to Michelle and her team for providing a hearty breakfast that fuelled our teams before the big start.

For some, this marks the triumphant end of their Kokoda journey, congratulations on a challenge well met. For others, this was just the beginning. The Gold Coast Kokoda Challenge awaits next month, and we can’t wait to see you all back in training, stronger and more inspired than ever!

Passion Projects & Pastries – Year 10 Bake Sales for Charity

Sophie Conlon

This term, our Year 10 students combined purpose with pastries as they researched charities, planned, and executed their own bake sales. Working in four dedicated groups, the students raised nearly $600 for a range of worthy causes. Throughout the process, they demonstrated impressive teamwork, resilience, and baking skills, turning their passion projects into real impact. A huge congratulations to all involved. You should be very proud of your efforts and generosity!

Year 9 Students Explored Business and Economics at Griffith University

Sam Montgomery

On Tuesday, 3rd June, eight Year 9 Business and Economics students attended the Business Ambassadors Program at Griffith University’s Nathan Campus, accompanied by their teachers, Mr Sam Montgomery and Mr Simon Jacobs.

The day began with a campus tour, followed by a welcome from Dr Ryan Gould, Schools Director at Griffith Business School. Students engaged in a Q&A session with Griffith Business student leaders, gaining insights into university life, followed by a small breakout session ‘Social change: How can marketing help?’

The Ambassador Program provided engaging opportunities for our students to take confident steps towards a successful career in sustainable business, tourism and hospitality, or government.

Sport

Interschool Sport - Tuesday 3rd June

Tuesday the 3rd of June marked the beginning of the Winter Season for Tuesday Interschool Sport. Unfortunately some of our sports were washed out however our Girls Netball teams and Boys & Girls Basketball teams kicked off their season in style with some impressive victories all around.

Year 7, 8 and 9 Girls Netball Teams all won by 10+ points.
Both Girls Basketball Teams put up 40 points each in impressive victories.
Year 7 Boys Basketball narrow loss. Year 9 Boys courageous win.

Interschool Sport - Tuesday 10th June

Tuesday 10th June was a great day for our Junior Sports teams as they embarked on their 2nd round of Fixtures for the winter season for Interschool Sport. It saw 6 of our 8 teams competing picking up convincing victories and against tough opposition. Standouts were our Girls Netballers and Basketballers who all won by impressive margins.

School Sport Representatives

Congratulations to our school sport representatives!

QLD:
Mahlia Henare

Met East:
Zachary Nalder
Oliver Hutchison
William Carter
Eleanor Lucas
Ari Mueller

Qld Netball Success for Mahlia Henare! 

Mahlia participated in the U19 Queensland state champs for Netball as part of the Met East team. She was named MVP for her team, MVP for the whole competition, and has been named in the QLD team! Congratulations Mahlia!

St James College Track and Field Training

Darin Coombs

St James College Track and Field team trains weekly on Mondays from 3:15pm to 4:45pm at the University of Queensland. A school bus departs at 3:00pm and returns by 5:00pm. Open to students from Years 5 to 12, sessions offer coaching for all events. The team has shown great dedication and improvement over the last five weeks. New and experienced athletes are welcome to join and develop their skills in a supportive environment.

Netball - Vicki Wilson Cup

Three netball teams from St James College recently competed at The Vicki Wilson Cup: Junior Girls, Senior Girls, and Senior Boys.

• The Senior Girls had a tough start, losing their first two games, but bounced back strongly to win their remaining matches.
• The Junior Girls had an outstanding day, remaining unbeaten throughout the event and qualifying for the Vicki Wilson Cup Championships in August.
• The Senior Boys had a fantastic day, securing 6 wins and 1 draw, and winning the Grand Final by just one goal and qualified for the Vicki Wilson Cup Championship in August.

Queensland School Futsal League Finals Days

This Week on the 10th & 11th of June our Opens Girls & Boys had their respective Finals Days. Our Girls were in the shield finals whilst our Boys were in the Champions finals.

• Girls finished 3rd in the group stage which unfortunately saw them fall agonizingly short of the semi-finals. However, they had a strong finish to the day, winning their final 2 games which saw them take a 5th place finish.
• Opens boys stormed through their Group Stage topping their Group with 7 points. They then went down in the semi-finals to the eventual Queensland SFL Champions. The boys played some outstanding Futsal and should be proud of their achievements

South District Trials

Term 2 Week 8

• 12-14yrs Baseball

Term 3 Week 2

• 5-16yrs Futsal Girls - Trial – 22nd July (this has been moved forward from what is on calendar)
• 13-14yrs Futsal Boys - Trial – 24th July
• 13-14yrs Futsal Girls - Trial – 24th July
• 15-16yrs Futsal Boys - Trial – 25th July

Term 3 Week 4

• SD Track and Field Day 1 - Trial – 4th August
• SD Track and Field Day 2 - Trial – 8th August

Upcoming Sporting Events: (check calendar)

• Big 6 Basketball Competition (every Saturday until 14th June)
• National School Girls Rugby League Match 3rd June
• The Devere Cup Rugby League 4th June
• Gee Cup Rugby League 4th June
• Queensland School Futsal League Opens Boys Champions Finals 11th June
• Queensland School Futsal League Opens Girls Shield Finals 10th June
• Football Queensland School Met East Regional Championships 23rd June

Fees

Genevieve O'Sullivan

Please be advised that Term 2 fees are now OVERDUE – however, for those families on fees concessions and/or regular payment plans, please just continue your regular payments as arranged.

If you did not receive an email from us containing your fees statement, please check your Junk or Spam email folder, otherwise all statements are accessible via logging in to Parent Lounge.

If you are experiencing financial hardship and would like to apply for a fees concession, please contact us for a confidential discussion and application.

2025 Tuition Fees information can be found on our website here: https://www.stjamescollege.qld...

Should you have any queries or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us at finance@stjamescollege.qld.edu.au or 3230 8600.

Cultural Night

An Evening with Ben Hunt

Notices

Thank you to our QISSN and QISSRL Sponsors!

Reminder for families:

Please ensure your contact details are up to date on Parent Lounge or contact the College if you need assistance.